US20180044105A1 - Capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages - Google Patents
Capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- US20180044105A1 US20180044105A1 US15/553,590 US201615553590A US2018044105A1 US 20180044105 A1 US20180044105 A1 US 20180044105A1 US 201615553590 A US201615553590 A US 201615553590A US 2018044105 A1 US2018044105 A1 US 2018044105A1
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- United States
- Prior art keywords
- capsule
- disc
- base
- infused
- edge
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Classifications
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
- B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
- B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
- B65D85/8052—Details of the outlet
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
- B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
- B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
- B65D85/8055—Means for influencing the liquid flow inside the package
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
- B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
- B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/24—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure
- A47J31/34—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure
- A47J31/36—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure with mechanical pressure-producing means
- A47J31/3666—Coffee-making apparatus in which hot water is passed through the filter under pressure, i.e. in which the coffee grounds are extracted under pressure with hot water under liquid pressure with mechanical pressure-producing means whereby the loading of the brewing chamber with the brewing material is performed by the user
- A47J31/3676—Cartridges being employed
-
- A—HUMAN NECESSITIES
- A47—FURNITURE; DOMESTIC ARTICLES OR APPLIANCES; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; SUCTION CLEANERS IN GENERAL
- A47J—KITCHEN EQUIPMENT; COFFEE MILLS; SPICE MILLS; APPARATUS FOR MAKING BEVERAGES
- A47J31/00—Apparatus for making beverages
- A47J31/40—Beverage-making apparatus with dispensing means for adding a measured quantity of ingredients, e.g. coffee, water, sugar, cocoa, milk, tea
- A47J31/407—Beverage-making apparatus with dispensing means for adding a measured quantity of ingredients, e.g. coffee, water, sugar, cocoa, milk, tea with ingredient-containing cartridges; Cartridge-perforating means
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
- B65D77/10—Container closures formed after filling
- B65D77/20—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers, i.e. flexible membrane or foil-like covers
- B65D77/2024—Container closures formed after filling by applying separate lids or covers, i.e. flexible membrane or foil-like covers the cover being welded or adhered to the container
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D77/00—Packages formed by enclosing articles or materials in preformed containers, e.g. boxes, cartons, sacks or bags
- B65D77/22—Details
- B65D77/24—Inserts or accessories added or incorporated during filling of containers
-
- B—PERFORMING OPERATIONS; TRANSPORTING
- B65—CONVEYING; PACKING; STORING; HANDLING THIN OR FILAMENTARY MATERIAL
- B65D—CONTAINERS FOR STORAGE OR TRANSPORT OF ARTICLES OR MATERIALS, e.g. BAGS, BARRELS, BOTTLES, BOXES, CANS, CARTONS, CRATES, DRUMS, JARS, TANKS, HOPPERS, FORWARDING CONTAINERS; ACCESSORIES, CLOSURES, OR FITTINGS THEREFOR; PACKAGING ELEMENTS; PACKAGES
- B65D85/00—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials
- B65D85/70—Containers, packaging elements or packages, specially adapted for particular articles or materials for materials not otherwise provided for
- B65D85/804—Disposable containers or packages with contents which are mixed, infused or dissolved in situ, i.e. without having been previously removed from the package
- B65D85/8043—Packages adapted to allow liquid to pass through the contents
- B65D85/8061—Filters
Definitions
- This invention relates to a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages.
- this invention relates a capsule for the packaging of concentrated products (for example in the form of powder, granules or leaves) in predetermined and disposable doses, for the extemporaneous preparation of beverages (such as tea, coffee, herbal tea, milk, chocolate, etc.) by means of the introduction, into the capsule itself, of a fluid under pressure (mostly hot water).
- concentrated products for example in the form of powder, granules or leaves
- beverages such as tea, coffee, herbal tea, milk, chocolate, etc.
- the common operating principle of such machines provides for the piercing of the cover closing the capsule to allow the introduction of a flow of hot water under pressure by the infuser group. After obtaining the infusion of the essence contained in the capsule, the infused beverage flows out of the capsule and is directed by the machine into the cup or final container.
- the known capsules are provided with a layer of sealing film, usually made of aluminium, placed on the bottom of the capsule in correspondence of a base provided with one or more cutting or piercing points or profiles.
- the increase of pressure in the capsule causes the pressurised fluid to push the aluminium layer against the points on the base until it is pierced or ruptured.
- the purpose of this invention is to provide a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages that solves the problems of the prior art.
- the purpose of this invention is to provide a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages that is simple and inexpensive to manufacture compared to the known capsules, while still achieving similar performance in terms of quality of the infused beverage.
- Another purpose of this invention is to provide a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages in which the opening of the capsule, to allow the infused beverage to flow out, occurs as a result of the deformation of the sealing disc, placed to cover the bottom of the capsule, due to the pressure exerted by the pressurised fluid inside it, thus avoiding recourse to any means of cutting or piercing as in the known capsules.
- a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to claim 1 by a method for the preparation of an infused beverage according to claim 12 , by a method for welding a sealing disc to the base of a capsule according to claim 15 and by a corresponding welding tool according to claim 18 .
- FIG. 1 is a perspective view from below of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention
- FIG. 2 is a perspective view from above of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention
- FIGS. 3 and 3A are, respectively, a top view and a sectional view of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention
- FIGS. 4 and 4A are, respectively, a top view and a sectional view of a capsule provided with a sealing disc on the bottom according to this invention, before infusion;
- FIGS. 5 and 5A are, respectively, a top view and a sectional view of a capsule provided with a sealing disc on the bottom according to this invention, after infusion;
- FIG. 6 is a sectional view of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention, in an embodiment variant
- FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention, in a further embodiment variant
- FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention, in a yet further embodiment variant;
- FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a welder for welding the sealing disc on the bottom of the capsule according to this invention.
- FIGS. 10 and 10A are, respectively, a sectional view and a detail of the welder of FIG. 9 , in an embodiment variant;
- FIGS. 11 and 11A are, respectively, a sectional view and a detail of the welder of FIG. 10 , in a step of welding the sealing disc on the bottom of the capsule;
- FIG. 11B shows a detail of the sealing disc welded on the bottom of the capsule, in an embodiment variant
- FIGS. 12 and 12A are, respectively, a sectional view and a detail of the welder of FIG. 9 , in a step of welding the sealing disc on the bottom of the capsule, in a further embodiment variant;
- FIG. 12B shows a detail of the sealing disc welded on the bottom of the capsule, in a further embodiment variant.
- FIGS. 13 and 13A are, respectively, a sectional view and a detail of the welder of FIG. 9 , in a step of welding the sealing disc on the bottom of the capsule, in a yet further embodiment variant;
- FIG. 14 is a top view of two possible embodiment variants of the capsule provided with radial grooves inside the welding area of the rim of the sealing disc;
- FIG. 15 is a top view of an embodiment variant of the capsule provided with radial grooves outside the welding area of the rim of the sealing disc;
- FIGS. 15B and 15C are, respectively, a top view and a detail in section of the capsule of FIG. 15A with a sealing disc welded on the bottom.
- FIGS. 6 and 8 show a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages indicated with the reference number 1 .
- the capsule 1 comprises a body or cup 2 suitable to define an inner volume V for containing at least one substance 11 to be infused or dissolved, typically in powder or granular form.
- the cup 2 is made of plastic material, preferably injection moulded or thermoformed.
- the cup is made of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET).
- the cup 2 is provided, on one side, with a bottom 3 and, on the opposite side, an entrance opening 21 defined by an edge 4 protruding outwardly.
- the cup 2 is provided, in correspondence of the bottom 3 , with an exit opening 31 , defined by a nozzle 32 , suitable to allow the outflow of the infused beverage.
- the cup 2 is provided, in correspondence of the bottom 3 , with a base 33 provided with a plurality of reliefs 310 , 320 , 330 , 340 , 350 , 360 , protruding vertically with respect to the base 33 itself.
- the reliefs are protruding towards the inside of the cup 2 , in the direction of the cover 6 .
- the upper surface of the reliefs 310 , 320 , 330 , 340 , 350 , 360 is substantially flat and free of cutting, puncturing or lacerating elements.
- a sealing disc 5 is fixed, by gluing or welding.
- the disc 5 is positioned between the inner volume V and the reliefs 310 , 320 , 330 , 340 , 350 , 360 .
- the disc 5 is positioned between the substance 11 to be infused or dissolved, and the base 33 , and in particular below the substance 11 and above the base 33 .
- the disc 5 closes the containment volume V of the substance, resting on the reliefs 310 , 320 , 330 , 340 , 350 , 360 that form the base 33 .
- the base 33 comprises a central portion 310 , defined by a first relief, covering the exit opening 31 of the nozzle 32 .
- the central portion 310 is provided with at least one connection opening 311 between the inside of the cup 2 and the exit opening 31 , precisely to allow the outflow of the infused beverage to the outside of the capsule 1 .
- the central portion 310 comprises a plurality of connection openings 311 .
- the base 33 comprises at least one labyrinth portion 320 , 330 , 340 , defined by a further relief.
- the labyrinth portion 320 , 330 , 340 is of substantially circular shape, arranged concentrically with respect to the nozzle 32 (and to the central portion 310 ).
- the labyrinth portion 320 , 330 , 340 is provided with a plurality of grooves 321 , 331 , 341 . These grooves 321 , 331 , 341 , preferably diagonal, allow the outflow of the infused beverage to the outside of the capsule 1 .
- the base 33 thus comprises a labyrinth 30 , defined by at least two labyrinth portions 320 , 330 , 340 .
- the labyrinth 30 is defined by a first labyrinth portion 320 , by a second labyrinth portion 330 and a third portion labyrinth 340 arranged concentrically with respect to the nozzle 32 (and to the central portion 310 ).
- the labyrinth 30 is suitable to prevent, by effect of capillarity, the passage of the infused beverage to the nozzle 32 when the pressure inside the capsule 1 drops below a threshold value, or ceases altogether when the capsule 1 is disengaged from the infusing group of the machine, to avoid dripping of the beverage itself.
- the labyrinth 30 is suitable to reduce the output speed of the infused beverage. The outflow of the infused liquid contained in the capsule 1 occurs with regularity, even in the presence of a high internal pressure, due to the resistance offered by the narrow passages formed by the plurality of grooves 321 , 331 , 341 .
- the base 33 comprises an outer edge 360 , defined by a further relief, on which a sealing disc 5 is fixed in a partially releasable manner by gluing or welding.
- the relief 360 that defines the edge 360 has substantially the same vertical extension of the other reliefs 310 , 320 , 330 , 340 that form the base 33 .
- the edge 360 comprises at least one raised portion 361 that defines, for example, a central raised ring having substantially the same vertical extension of the other reliefs 310 , 330 , 340 that form the base 33 .
- the edge 360 comprises at least one recessed portion 363 having a lesser vertical extension with respect to the other reliefs 310 , 320 , 330 , 340 that form the base 33 , and the raised portion 361 .
- the presence of a recessed area 363 external to the raised area 361 in correspondence of which occurs the welding of the disc 5 , allows channeling the pressurised liquid under the edge 51 so as to facilitate the detachment of the disc 5 from base 33 .
- the presence of a recessed area 363 internal to the raised area 361 in correspondence of which occurs the welding of the disc 5 , facilitates, once obtained the opening of the capsule, the outflow of the infused beverage.
- recessed areas 363 can be prepared, for example in the form of radial grooves 363 ′, 363 ′′.
- the radial grooves 363 ′, 363 ′′ are homogeneously distributed in correspondence of the edge 360 of the base 33 of the bottom of the capsule.
- FIGS. 14 and 15A show several realisation examples of the radial grooves.
- FIG. 14 shows a capsule provided with a plurality of radial grooves 363 ′ on the edge 360 , in particular internally with respect to the area where the edge 51 of the disc 5 will be welded, so as to facilitate the outflow of the infused beverage once the opening of the capsule is obtained.
- the left portion of FIG. 14 shows an example of a capsule provided with a high number of radial grooves 363 ′ of reduced size; the right portion of FIG. 14 , shows an example of a capsule provided with a lower number of radial grooves 363 ′ of larger size.
- FIG. 15 shows a capsule provided with a plurality of radial grooves 363 ′′ on the edge 360 , in particular externally with respect to the area where the edge 51 of the disc 5 will be welded, so as to channel the pressurised liquid under the disc 5 to facilitate its detachment.
- the welding of the disc 5 takes place in correspondence of a reduced portion of the edge 360 , while the groove 363 ′′ allows channeling the pressurised liquid under the edge 51 of the disc 5 .
- the base 33 comprises a plurality of sectors 350 , defined by further reliefs, arranged between the labyrinth 30 and the edge 360 .
- the circular sectors 350 are circumferentially arranged homogeneously with respect to the nozzle 32 (and to the central portion 310 ).
- the upper surface of the sectors 350 is substantially flat and free of cutting, puncturing or lacerating elements.
- a sealing disc 5 is supported on the upper surface of the sectors 350 .
- the reliefs 350 that defines the sectors 350 have substantially the same vertical extension of the other reliefs 310 , 320 , 330 , 340 that form the base 33 .
- the reliefs 350 that defines the sectors 350 have a lesser vertical extension, which is to say they are lowered, with respect to the other reliefs 310 , 320 , 330 , 340 that form the base 33 .
- the sectors define a plurality of recesses 351 , compartments or spaces that allow the outflow of the infused beverage to the outside of the capsule 1 .
- a recess 351 is defined between a pair of adjacent sectors 350 .
- the base 33 includes six sectors 350 and six recesses 351 .
- the recess 351 defines a space suitable to accommodate, without obstructing it, the deformation of at least a portion of a sealing disc 5 when the pressure exerted by the fluid inside the capsule 1 reaches a certain opening threshold level.
- the circumferential extension of a sector 350 is greater than circumferential extension of a recess 351 .
- This constructive choice allows the disc 5 to be freely deformable inside the recess 351 , so as to form the crease 52 to open the passage P for the outflow of the infused beverage, and to be simultaneously supported by the sector 350 , in such a way as to ensure an adequate width of the passage P for the proper and smooth outflow of the infused beverage.
- the capsule 1 for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages comprises a cover 6 fixed, by gluing or welding, in correspondence of the edge 4 , suitable to seal the cup 2 on the top.
- the cover 6 is an aluminium film, or a composite plastic/aluminium material or a single- or multi-layer plastic.
- the capsule 1 for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages comprises a sealing disc 5 fixed inside the cup 2 in correspondence of the bottom 3 , suitable to seal the cup 2 on the bottom.
- the capsule 1 is thus provided with a closed chamber 12 , defined by the cover 6 on the top and by the disc 5 on the bottom, inside which is contained the substance 11 to be infused or dissolved.
- the presence of a hermetically closed chamber 12 is important for the good maintenance and preservation of the substance 11 .
- the capsule 1 provided with a hermetically closed chamber 12 allows maintaining over time the organoleptic properties of the substance 11 to be infused or dissolve, and ensures a high quality of the infused beverage.
- the disc 5 is an aluminium film, or a composite plastic/aluminium material or a single- or multi-layer plastic.
- the disc 5 is a film with a thickness of at least 25 ⁇ .
- the disc 5 is a film with a thickness between 25 ⁇ and 45 ⁇ , still more preferably between 30 ⁇ and 40 ⁇ .
- the disc 5 is a film of strong aluminium, preferably with a thickness of 30 ⁇ .
- This technical solution allows the disc 5 to be deformed due to the increase of pressure inside the capsule 1 , without tearing or breaking.
- the disc 5 is welded or glued in correspondence of the base 33 of the cup 2 in a manner at least partially releasable.
- the disc 5 is welded or glued on the outer edge 360 in a releasable manner.
- the disc 5 is welded through the use of a sealing lacquer 89 having a low or bland level of adhesion, or glued by means of a glue with a low or bland level of adhesion, in such a way as to allow detachment or unsticking from the base 33 due to the increase of pressure inside the capsule 1 .
- the lacquer ensures a lower detachment force than that of standard lacquers.
- the detachment force measured after welding the disc 5 to the base 33 with a temperature of 240° C. for a time of 0.3 s and a force of 6 bar much lower than 10N/15 mm on a flat surface.
- the disc 5 is welded or glued in correspondence of the bottom of the cup 2 and, in particular, is welded at least partially on the base 33 .
- the disc 5 is welded or glued on the upper surface of at least some of the reliefs 310 , 320 , 330 , 340 , 360 .
- the disc 5 is welded or glued to the outer edge 360 and on at least one of the labyrinth portions 320 , 330 , 340 .
- the disc 5 is welded or glued on the labyrinth 30 , which is to say on all the labyrinth portions 320 , 330 , 340 that define the labyrinth 30 itself.
- the disc 5 is also glued or welded on the central portion 310 .
- the disc 5 is only supported, without being fixed, on at least some of the sectors 350 .
- the disc 5 is only supported on all the sectors 350 .
- the sector 350 defines a support and sliding surface of at least a portion of the disk 5 during its deformation by the pressurised fluid in the capsule 1 when a certain opening pressure is reached.
- This invention also relates to a method of a welding a sealing disc 5 to the base 33 of a capsule 1 according to this invention, wherein the disc 5 is welded in a releasable manner to an outside edge 360 of the base 33 using a welding lacquer 89 with a low level of adhesion.
- the disc 5 is also welded on labyrinth portions 320 , 330 , 340 of the base 33 that define the labyrinth 30 .
- the disc 5 is welded using a special welding tool 9 , shown in FIG. 9 .
- the welding tool 9 comprises a body 92 provided on one side with a head 93 , suitable to allow the gripping and handling of the tool 9 , and one the opposite side with a welding base 91 .
- the base 91 of the welder 9 is provided with a welding profile 94 substantially flat.
- the disc 5 is welded in correspondence of the labyrinth 30 , preferably also of the central portion 310 , and at least partially in correspondence of the edge 360 , in particular in correspondence of the raised portion 361 .
- At least one welding area 944 (labyrinth 30 , preferably the central portion 310 , the raised portion 361 ) and at least one free area 943 (reliefs 350 , recessed portion 363 ) in which no welding takes place.
- the sealing area 944 corresponding to only the raised portion 361 , is of reduced width or in any case less with respect to the total width of the edge 360 of the base 33 .
- the presence of a welding area of reduced width in correspondence of the edge 360 facilitates the detachment of the disc 5 due to the increase of pressure inside the capsule 1 .
- the base 91 is provided with a welding profile 94 suitable to weld the disc 5 only in correspondence of some portions of the base 33 .
- the welding profile 94 comprises a central portion 942 suitable to weld the disc 5 in correspondence of the labyrinth 30 , preferably also of the central portion 310 , and of a contour portion 941 suitable to weld at least partially the disc 5 in correspondence of the edge 360 .
- the welding profile 94 is provided, between the central portion 942 and the contour portion 941 , with a channel 93 suitable to define a free area 943 in which no welding takes place.
- the base 91 being of the tool 9 being substantially cylindrical
- the channel 93 is substantially circular and concentric with respect to the base 91 .
- the central portion 942 of the welding profile 94 is substantially flat and defines a welding area 944 of the same width as the labyrinth 30 , and preferably also of the central portion 310 , of the base 33 .
- the contour portion 941 of the welding profile 94 is defined by a tooth 95 that defines a welding area 944 of reduced width or in any case less than the width of the edge 360 of the base 33 .
- the presence of a welding area of reduced width in correspondence of the edge 360 of the base 33 facilitates the detachment of the disc 33 due to the increase of pressure inside the capsule 1 .
- the disc 5 is welded at least partially in correspondence of walls 380 inclined or vertical.
- the welding profile 94 comprises a central portion 942 suitable to weld the disc 5 in correspondence of the labyrinth 30 , preferably also of the central portion 310 , and of a lateral portion 941 suitable to weld at least partially the disc 5 in correspondence of the walls 380 .
- the welding profile 94 is provided, between the central portion 942 and the lateral portion 945 , with a channel 93 suitable to define a free area 943 in which no welding takes place.
- the channel 93 extends to the lateral portion 945 .
- This invention also relates to a welding tool 9 for welding a sealing disc 5 to the base 33 of a capsule 1 according to this invention, provided with a welding base 91 with a welding profile 94 comprising a central portion 942 and a contour portion 941 suitable to make a weld, and a channel 93 , provided between the central portion 942 and the contour portion 941 , suitable to define a free area 943 in which there is no welding.
- the capsule 1 can be realised in various versions.
- FIGS. 6 and 7 show a capsule for the preparation of infused beverages, in particular coffee.
- the capsule 1 for coffee also comprises a filter 8 welded or glued under the substance 11 on suitable vertical abutments 18 provided inside the cup 2 .
- the filter 8 is welded or glued in correspondence of the inner walls of the cup 2 , just above the bottom 3 .
- the filter 8 is welded or glued above the disc 5 .
- the presence of the filter 8 preferably made of paper, fabric or non-woven fabric, below the substance 11 , and in particular of the coffee powder, allows filtering the infused liquid before it flows out from the capsule 1 , in this way preventing coffee powder residues from remaining in the infused beverage and impairing its quality.
- the capsule 1 for coffee also comprises a permeable or micro-perforated film 7 , welded or glued above the substance 11 on special horizontal abutments 17 provided inside the cup 2 .
- the film 7 defines, together with the disc 5 , a sub-chamber 12 ′ within which the substance 11 to be infused is effectively contained.
- This film 7 which allows the passage of the pressurised fluid but not the passage of the substance 11 , prevents the dispersion of the coffee powder during the infusion step, improving the quality of the infused beverage.
- the cup 2 comprises, inside a dividing wall 13 , preferably circular, suitable to define the lateral walls of the sub-chamber 12 ′ within which the substance 11 to be infused is effectively contained.
- the film 7 is fixed in correspondence of the upper edge of the dividing wall 13 , an edge that in this case represents the horizontal abutment 17 for gluing or welding.
- FIG. 8 shows a capsule for the preparation of soluble beverages, such as for example tea, chocolate or milk.
- the capsule 1 for soluble substances comprises the cover 6 and the sealing disc 5 , and is without filter 8 and permeable or micro-perforated film 7 .
- the capsule 1 in its various embodiment variants, can be used for the extemporaneous preparation of beverages (such as tea, coffee, herbal tea, milk, chocolate, etc.) using automatic or semi-automatic machines equipped with a dispenser group suitable to produce an infusion through the passage of hot water under pressure through the capsule 1 .
- beverages such as tea, coffee, herbal tea, milk, chocolate, etc.
- the capsule 1 in use, the capsule 1 is inserted in a suitable seat provided in the machine.
- the machine pierces the cover 6 , placed to close the capsule 1 , and inserts, inside the chamber 12 , 12 ′ in which the substance 11 is contained, a pressurised fluid (mostly hot water).
- a pressurised fluid mostly hot water
- the presence of the disc 5 to closure of the bottom 3 of the capsule 1 allows the pressurised fluid to remain, for a certain interval of time, in contact with the substance 11 to be infused or dissolved, so as to ensure obtaining an optimum infused beverage.
- the pressure exerted by the fluid inside the capsule 1 rises until reaching a certain threshold level, or opening pressure (for example comprised between 4 and 8 bar), which pushes on the disc 5 determining the opening of the capsule 1 .
- opening pressure for example comprised between 4 and 8 bar
- the opening of the capsule 1 is determined by the deformation, at least partial, of the disc 5 .
- the disc 5 Due to the increase of pressure inside the capsule 1 , the disc 5 becomes slightly convex, which is to say the edge 51 is slightly raised with respect to the edge 360 of the base 33 .
- the edge 51 of the disc 5 is detached or unstuck, at least partially, preferably completely, from the base 33 .
- the unsticking occurs at least in correspondence of the edge 51 of the disc 5 and the edge 360 of the base 33 . This unsticking obviates the sealing effect previously provided by the sealing disc 5 .
- the edge 51 of the disc 5 is deformed with a certain undulation and forms a crease 52 , preferably a plurality of creases 52 .
- the deformation of the disc 5 determines a separation of the disc 5 from the base 33 , at least in correspondence of the edge 360 , such as to allow the opening of a passage P for the outflow of the infused liquid.
- the edge 51 of the disc 5 forms a crease 52 in correspondence of at least one recess 351 .
- the edge 51 of the disc 5 forms a crease 52 in correspondence of each recess 351 .
- the disc 5 being supported only on the upper surface of the sectors. 350 , without being welded or glued on them, can freely slide on the sectors 350 during the deformation due to the increase of pressure inside the capsule 1 .
- the presence of the recesses 351 allows accommodating, without obstructing it, the deformation of the disc 5 due to the increase of pressure inside the capsule 1 . Therefore, precisely in correspondence of the recesses 351 , the creases 52 are formed.
- the exit passage P for the infused beverage, between the chamber 12 , 12 ′ and the nozzle 32 is created spontaneously by just the increase in pressure exerted by the pressurised fluid in the capsule 1 , without the need for means of piercing or tearing of the disc, points or cutting profiles.
- This invention also relates to a method for preparing an infused beverage using a capsule 1 according to this invention, wherein the opening to allow the outflow of the infused beverage is determined the detachment or unsticking, at least partial, of the disc 5 from the base 33 and by the subsequent deformation, at least partial, of the disc 5 itself.
- the unsticking of the disc 5 takes place in correspondence of the edge 360 of the base 33 so as to obviate the sealing effect previously provided by the disc 5 .
- the deformation of the disc 5 takes place on the 51 of the disc 5 which forms, at least at a recess 351 , a crease 52 suitable to permit the release of the infused beverage.
- a capsule according to this invention is usable for the packaging of concentrated products (in the form of powder, granules or leaves) in predetermined and disposable doses, for the extemporaneous preparation of beverages such as tea in leaves or soluble, coffee in powder or instant coffee, herbal tea, milk, chocolate, or other dehydrated, water-soluble products.
- concentrated products in the form of powder, granules or leaves
- beverages such as tea in leaves or soluble, coffee in powder or instant coffee, herbal tea, milk, chocolate, or other dehydrated, water-soluble products.
- a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention is of simple construction and, in any case, able to ensure high performance in terms of quality of the infused beverage.
- a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention allows maintaining over time the organoleptic properties of the substance contained inside it and thus ensures an excellent quality of the infused beverage.
- the pressurised fluid passes through the substance to be infused in an optimal way with possible effects on the quality of the infused beverage.
- the opening, to allow the infused beverage to flow out occurs as a result of the deformation of the sealing disc, placed to cover the bottom, due to the pressure exerted by the pressurised fluid inside it, thus avoiding recourse to any means of cutting or piercing.
- the infused beverage is never in contact with parts or elements of the machine used for the preparation of the beverage itself, without risks of alteration of the taste in the case of preparation of different types of beverages.
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Abstract
Description
- This invention relates to a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages.
- In particular, this invention relates a capsule for the packaging of concentrated products (for example in the form of powder, granules or leaves) in predetermined and disposable doses, for the extemporaneous preparation of beverages (such as tea, coffee, herbal tea, milk, chocolate, etc.) by means of the introduction, into the capsule itself, of a fluid under pressure (mostly hot water).
- In the field of capsules or pods for coffee or other infusions, it is known to use automatic or semi-automatic machines equipped with a dispenser group suitable to produce an infusion through the passage of hot water under pressure through the capsule containing precisely the essence to be infused or dissolved. Examples of such known capsules notes are described in earlier documents US2010/260896, WO2015/008309 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,221,028.
- The common operating principle of such machines provides for the piercing of the cover closing the capsule to allow the introduction of a flow of hot water under pressure by the infuser group. After obtaining the infusion of the essence contained in the capsule, the infused beverage flows out of the capsule and is directed by the machine into the cup or final container.
- To prevent the pressurised fluid from passing through the substance to be infused too rapidly, without therefore spreading sufficiently inside the capsule with negative repercussions on the quality of the infused beverage, the known capsules are provided with a layer of sealing film, usually made of aluminium, placed on the bottom of the capsule in correspondence of a base provided with one or more cutting or piercing points or profiles. The increase of pressure in the capsule causes the pressurised fluid to push the aluminium layer against the points on the base until it is pierced or ruptured. Once the opening is created in the layer of sealing film, the infused beverage can flow out from a suitable opening in the base of the capsule itself.
- These known capsules are rather complex from the constructive point of view, particularly as regards the realisation of the cutting and piercing points and profiles on the base. Therefore, these known capsules are rather expensive, especially as concerns the production of the related moulds.
- The purpose of this invention is to provide a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages that solves the problems of the prior art.
- In particular, the purpose of this invention is to provide a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages that is simple and inexpensive to manufacture compared to the known capsules, while still achieving similar performance in terms of quality of the infused beverage.
- Another purpose of this invention is to provide a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages in which the opening of the capsule, to allow the infused beverage to flow out, occurs as a result of the deformation of the sealing disc, placed to cover the bottom of the capsule, due to the pressure exerted by the pressurised fluid inside it, thus avoiding recourse to any means of cutting or piercing as in the known capsules.
- This purpose is achieved by a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to
claim 1, by a method for the preparation of an infused beverage according toclaim 12, by a method for welding a sealing disc to the base of a capsule according to claim 15 and by a corresponding welding tool according toclaim 18. - The dependent claims describe preferred embodiments of the invention.
- The characteristics and advantages of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention will be apparent from the following description, given by way of non-limiting example, in accordance with the accompanying figures, wherein:
-
FIG. 1 is a perspective view from below of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention; -
FIG. 2 is a perspective view from above of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention; -
FIGS. 3 and 3A are, respectively, a top view and a sectional view of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention; -
FIGS. 4 and 4A are, respectively, a top view and a sectional view of a capsule provided with a sealing disc on the bottom according to this invention, before infusion; -
FIGS. 5 and 5A are, respectively, a top view and a sectional view of a capsule provided with a sealing disc on the bottom according to this invention, after infusion; -
FIG. 6 is a sectional view of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention, in an embodiment variant; -
FIG. 7 is a sectional view of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention, in a further embodiment variant; -
FIG. 8 is a sectional view of a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention, in a yet further embodiment variant; -
FIG. 9 is a perspective view of a welder for welding the sealing disc on the bottom of the capsule according to this invention; -
FIGS. 10 and 10A are, respectively, a sectional view and a detail of the welder ofFIG. 9 , in an embodiment variant; -
FIGS. 11 and 11A are, respectively, a sectional view and a detail of the welder ofFIG. 10 , in a step of welding the sealing disc on the bottom of the capsule; -
FIG. 11B shows a detail of the sealing disc welded on the bottom of the capsule, in an embodiment variant; -
FIGS. 12 and 12A are, respectively, a sectional view and a detail of the welder ofFIG. 9 , in a step of welding the sealing disc on the bottom of the capsule, in a further embodiment variant; -
FIG. 12B ; shows a detail of the sealing disc welded on the bottom of the capsule, in a further embodiment variant. -
FIGS. 13 and 13A are, respectively, a sectional view and a detail of the welder ofFIG. 9 , in a step of welding the sealing disc on the bottom of the capsule, in a yet further embodiment variant; -
FIG. 14 is a top view of two possible embodiment variants of the capsule provided with radial grooves inside the welding area of the rim of the sealing disc; -
FIG. 15 is a top view of an embodiment variant of the capsule provided with radial grooves outside the welding area of the rim of the sealing disc; -
FIGS. 15B and 15C are, respectively, a top view and a detail in section of the capsule ofFIG. 15A with a sealing disc welded on the bottom. - The accompanying figures, and in particular
FIGS. 6 and 8 , show a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages indicated with thereference number 1. - The
capsule 1 comprises a body orcup 2 suitable to define an inner volume V for containing at least onesubstance 11 to be infused or dissolved, typically in powder or granular form. - The
cup 2 is made of plastic material, preferably injection moulded or thermoformed. For example, the cup is made of polypropylene (PP), polyethylene (PE), polybutylene terephthalate (PBT) or polyethylene terephthalate (PET). - As shown in
FIGS. 1 and 2 , thecup 2 is provided, on one side, with abottom 3 and, on the opposite side, anentrance opening 21 defined by anedge 4 protruding outwardly. - The
cup 2 is provided, in correspondence of thebottom 3, with anexit opening 31, defined by anozzle 32, suitable to allow the outflow of the infused beverage. - The
cup 2 is provided, in correspondence of thebottom 3, with abase 33 provided with a plurality ofreliefs base 33 itself. The reliefs are protruding towards the inside of thecup 2, in the direction of thecover 6. Advantageously, the upper surface of thereliefs reliefs sealing disc 5. - As shown in
FIGS. 6, 7 and 8 , thedisc 5 is positioned between the inner volume V and thereliefs - The
disc 5 is positioned between thesubstance 11 to be infused or dissolved, and thebase 33, and in particular below thesubstance 11 and above thebase 33. - The
disc 5 closes the containment volume V of the substance, resting on thereliefs base 33. - As shown in
FIGS. 3 and 3A , thebase 33 comprises acentral portion 310, defined by a first relief, covering the exit opening 31 of thenozzle 32. Thecentral portion 310 is provided with at least one connection opening 311 between the inside of thecup 2 and the exit opening 31, precisely to allow the outflow of the infused beverage to the outside of thecapsule 1. Preferably, thecentral portion 310 comprises a plurality ofconnection openings 311. - The
base 33 comprises at least onelabyrinth portion - The
labyrinth portion - The
labyrinth portion grooves grooves capsule 1. - The
base 33 thus comprises alabyrinth 30, defined by at least twolabyrinth portions FIG. 3 , thelabyrinth 30 is defined by afirst labyrinth portion 320, by asecond labyrinth portion 330 and athird portion labyrinth 340 arranged concentrically with respect to the nozzle 32 (and to the central portion 310). Advantageously, thelabyrinth 30 is suitable to prevent, by effect of capillarity, the passage of the infused beverage to thenozzle 32 when the pressure inside thecapsule 1 drops below a threshold value, or ceases altogether when thecapsule 1 is disengaged from the infusing group of the machine, to avoid dripping of the beverage itself. Advantageously, especially in the case of a capsule for the preparation of soluble beverages, thelabyrinth 30 is suitable to reduce the output speed of the infused beverage. The outflow of the infused liquid contained in thecapsule 1 occurs with regularity, even in the presence of a high internal pressure, due to the resistance offered by the narrow passages formed by the plurality ofgrooves - The
base 33 comprises anouter edge 360, defined by a further relief, on which asealing disc 5 is fixed in a partially releasable manner by gluing or welding. - In an embodiment variant, shown in
FIG. 11B , therelief 360 that defines theedge 360 has substantially the same vertical extension of theother reliefs base 33. - In a further embodiment variant, shown in
FIG. 12B , theedge 360 comprises at least one raisedportion 361 that defines, for example, a central raised ring having substantially the same vertical extension of theother reliefs base 33. Theedge 360 comprises at least one recessedportion 363 having a lesser vertical extension with respect to theother reliefs base 33, and the raisedportion 361. Advantageously, the presence of a recessedarea 363 external to the raisedarea 361, in correspondence of which occurs the welding of thedisc 5, allows channeling the pressurised liquid under theedge 51 so as to facilitate the detachment of thedisc 5 frombase 33. Advantageously, the presence of a recessedarea 363 internal to the raisedarea 361, in correspondence of which occurs the welding of thedisc 5, facilitates, once obtained the opening of the capsule, the outflow of the infused beverage. - As shown in
FIG. 14 , also in the variant in which thereliefs areas 363 can be prepared, for example in the form ofradial grooves 363′, 363″. Preferably, theradial grooves 363′,363″ are homogeneously distributed in correspondence of theedge 360 of thebase 33 of the bottom of the capsule. In particular,FIGS. 14 and 15A show several realisation examples of the radial grooves. - For example,
FIG. 14 shows a capsule provided with a plurality ofradial grooves 363′ on theedge 360, in particular internally with respect to the area where theedge 51 of thedisc 5 will be welded, so as to facilitate the outflow of the infused beverage once the opening of the capsule is obtained. - The left portion of
FIG. 14 , shows an example of a capsule provided with a high number ofradial grooves 363′ of reduced size; the right portion ofFIG. 14 , shows an example of a capsule provided with a lower number ofradial grooves 363′ of larger size. - For example,
FIG. 15 shows a capsule provided with a plurality ofradial grooves 363″ on theedge 360, in particular externally with respect to the area where theedge 51 of thedisc 5 will be welded, so as to channel the pressurised liquid under thedisc 5 to facilitate its detachment. As shown inFIG. 15C , the welding of thedisc 5 takes place in correspondence of a reduced portion of theedge 360, while thegroove 363″ allows channeling the pressurised liquid under theedge 51 of thedisc 5. - The
base 33 comprises a plurality ofsectors 350, defined by further reliefs, arranged between thelabyrinth 30 and theedge 360. - The
circular sectors 350, substantially in the shape of an arc of circumference, are circumferentially arranged homogeneously with respect to the nozzle 32 (and to the central portion 310). Advantageously, the upper surface of thesectors 350 is substantially flat and free of cutting, puncturing or lacerating elements. Advantageously, asealing disc 5 is supported on the upper surface of thesectors 350. - In an embodiment variant, shown in
FIG. 11B , thereliefs 350 that defines thesectors 350 have substantially the same vertical extension of theother reliefs base 33. - In a further embodiment variant, shown in
FIG. 12B , thereliefs 350 that defines thesectors 350 have a lesser vertical extension, which is to say they are lowered, with respect to theother reliefs base 33. - The sectors define a plurality of
recesses 351, compartments or spaces that allow the outflow of the infused beverage to the outside of thecapsule 1. In particular, arecess 351 is defined between a pair ofadjacent sectors 350. In the embodiment variant ofFIG. 3 , thebase 33 includes sixsectors 350 and sixrecesses 351. Advantageously, therecess 351 defines a space suitable to accommodate, without obstructing it, the deformation of at least a portion of asealing disc 5 when the pressure exerted by the fluid inside thecapsule 1 reaches a certain opening threshold level. - Preferably, the circumferential extension of a
sector 350 is greater than circumferential extension of arecess 351. This constructive choice allows thedisc 5 to be freely deformable inside therecess 351, so as to form thecrease 52 to open the passage P for the outflow of the infused beverage, and to be simultaneously supported by thesector 350, in such a way as to ensure an adequate width of the passage P for the proper and smooth outflow of the infused beverage. - As shown in
FIGS. 6 to 8 , thecapsule 1 for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages, comprises acover 6 fixed, by gluing or welding, in correspondence of theedge 4, suitable to seal thecup 2 on the top. - Preferably, the
cover 6 is an aluminium film, or a composite plastic/aluminium material or a single- or multi-layer plastic. - As shown in
FIGS. 4 and 4A , thecapsule 1 for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages, comprises asealing disc 5 fixed inside thecup 2 in correspondence of thebottom 3, suitable to seal thecup 2 on the bottom. - The
capsule 1 is thus provided with aclosed chamber 12, defined by thecover 6 on the top and by thedisc 5 on the bottom, inside which is contained thesubstance 11 to be infused or dissolved. - The presence of a hermetically
closed chamber 12 is important for the good maintenance and preservation of thesubstance 11. Thecapsule 1 provided with a hermeticallyclosed chamber 12 allows maintaining over time the organoleptic properties of thesubstance 11 to be infused or dissolve, and ensures a high quality of the infused beverage. - Preferably, the
disc 5 is an aluminium film, or a composite plastic/aluminium material or a single- or multi-layer plastic. - Preferably, the
disc 5 is a film with a thickness of at least 25μ. - Preferably, the
disc 5 is a film with a thickness between 25μ and 45μ, still more preferably between 30μ and 40μ. - Preferably, the
disc 5 is a film of strong aluminium, preferably with a thickness of 30μ. - This technical solution allows the
disc 5 to be deformed due to the increase of pressure inside thecapsule 1, without tearing or breaking. - The
disc 5 is welded or glued in correspondence of thebase 33 of thecup 2 in a manner at least partially releasable. Preferably, thedisc 5 is welded or glued on theouter edge 360 in a releasable manner. - Preferably, the
disc 5 is welded through the use of a sealinglacquer 89 having a low or bland level of adhesion, or glued by means of a glue with a low or bland level of adhesion, in such a way as to allow detachment or unsticking from thebase 33 due to the increase of pressure inside thecapsule 1. - Preferably, the lacquer ensures a lower detachment force than that of standard lacquers. For example, the detachment force measured after welding the
disc 5 to the base 33 with a temperature of 240° C. for a time of 0.3 s and a force of 6 bar, much lower than 10N/15 mm on a flat surface. - The
disc 5 is welded or glued in correspondence of the bottom of thecup 2 and, in particular, is welded at least partially on thebase 33. Thedisc 5 is welded or glued on the upper surface of at least some of thereliefs - The
disc 5 is welded or glued to theouter edge 360 and on at least one of thelabyrinth portions disc 5 is welded or glued on thelabyrinth 30, which is to say on all thelabyrinth portions labyrinth 30 itself. - Preferably, the
disc 5 is also glued or welded on thecentral portion 310. - The
disc 5 is only supported, without being fixed, on at least some of thesectors 350. Preferably, thedisc 5 is only supported on all thesectors 350. Advantageously, thesector 350 defines a support and sliding surface of at least a portion of thedisk 5 during its deformation by the pressurised fluid in thecapsule 1 when a certain opening pressure is reached. - This invention also relates to a method of a welding a
sealing disc 5 to thebase 33 of acapsule 1 according to this invention, wherein thedisc 5 is welded in a releasable manner to anoutside edge 360 of the base 33 using awelding lacquer 89 with a low level of adhesion. In particular, thedisc 5 is also welded onlabyrinth portions labyrinth 30. - Preferably, the
disc 5 is welded using aspecial welding tool 9, shown inFIG. 9 . - The
welding tool 9 comprises abody 92 provided on one side with ahead 93, suitable to allow the gripping and handling of thetool 9, and one the opposite side with awelding base 91. - In the embodiment variant shown in
FIGS. 12 and 12A , preferably usable for welding adisc 5 on a base 33 in which thesectors 350 are recessed and theedge 360 comprises at least one recessedportion 363 with respect to theother reliefs base 33, thebase 91 of thewelder 9 is provided with awelding profile 94 substantially flat. - In this embodiment variant, as shown in
FIG. 12B , thedisc 5 is welded in correspondence of thelabyrinth 30, preferably also of thecentral portion 310, and at least partially in correspondence of theedge 360, in particular in correspondence of the raisedportion 361. - In this embodiment variant, is formed at least one welding area 944 (
labyrinth 30, preferably thecentral portion 310, the raised portion 361) and at least one free area 943 (reliefs 350, recessed portion 363) in which no welding takes place. - In particular, with regard to the
edge 360, the sealingarea 944, corresponding to only the raisedportion 361, is of reduced width or in any case less with respect to the total width of theedge 360 of thebase 33. Advantageously, the presence of a welding area of reduced width in correspondence of theedge 360 facilitates the detachment of thedisc 5 due to the increase of pressure inside thecapsule 1. - In the embodiment variants shown in
FIGS. 10 to 11A and 13 and 13A , preferably usable for the welding of adisc 5 on a base 33 in which thereliefs base 91 is provided with awelding profile 94 suitable to weld thedisc 5 only in correspondence of some portions of thebase 33. - As shown in
FIGS. 11, 11A and 11B , thewelding profile 94 comprises acentral portion 942 suitable to weld thedisc 5 in correspondence of thelabyrinth 30, preferably also of thecentral portion 310, and of acontour portion 941 suitable to weld at least partially thedisc 5 in correspondence of theedge 360. - The
welding profile 94 is provided, between thecentral portion 942 and thecontour portion 941, with achannel 93 suitable to define afree area 943 in which no welding takes place. - Preferably, the
base 91 being of thetool 9 being substantially cylindrical, thechannel 93 is substantially circular and concentric with respect to thebase 91. - The
central portion 942 of thewelding profile 94 is substantially flat and defines awelding area 944 of the same width as thelabyrinth 30, and preferably also of thecentral portion 310, of thebase 33. - The
contour portion 941 of thewelding profile 94 is defined by atooth 95 that defines awelding area 944 of reduced width or in any case less than the width of theedge 360 of thebase 33. - Advantageously, the presence of a welding area of reduced width in correspondence of the
edge 360 of thebase 33 facilitates the detachment of thedisc 33 due to the increase of pressure inside thecapsule 1. - In the embodiment variant shown in
FIGS. 13 and 13A , thedisc 5 is welded at least partially in correspondence ofwalls 380 inclined or vertical. - In this variant, the
welding profile 94 comprises acentral portion 942 suitable to weld thedisc 5 in correspondence of thelabyrinth 30, preferably also of thecentral portion 310, and of alateral portion 941 suitable to weld at least partially thedisc 5 in correspondence of thewalls 380. - The
welding profile 94 is provided, between thecentral portion 942 and thelateral portion 945, with achannel 93 suitable to define afree area 943 in which no welding takes place. In this variant, thechannel 93 extends to thelateral portion 945. - This invention also relates to a
welding tool 9 for welding asealing disc 5 to thebase 33 of acapsule 1 according to this invention, provided with awelding base 91 with awelding profile 94 comprising acentral portion 942 and acontour portion 941 suitable to make a weld, and achannel 93, provided between thecentral portion 942 and thecontour portion 941, suitable to define afree area 943 in which there is no welding. - As shown in
FIGS. 6 to 8 , thecapsule 1 can be realised in various versions. -
FIGS. 6 and 7 show a capsule for the preparation of infused beverages, in particular coffee. - Preferably, in such embodiment variants, the
capsule 1 for coffee also comprises afilter 8 welded or glued under thesubstance 11 on suitablevertical abutments 18 provided inside thecup 2. Preferably, thefilter 8 is welded or glued in correspondence of the inner walls of thecup 2, just above thebottom 3. In particular, thefilter 8 is welded or glued above thedisc 5. The presence of thefilter 8, preferably made of paper, fabric or non-woven fabric, below thesubstance 11, and in particular of the coffee powder, allows filtering the infused liquid before it flows out from thecapsule 1, in this way preventing coffee powder residues from remaining in the infused beverage and impairing its quality. - Preferably, in these embodiment variants, the
capsule 1 for coffee also comprises a permeable ormicro-perforated film 7, welded or glued above thesubstance 11 on specialhorizontal abutments 17 provided inside thecup 2. - Inside the
chamber 12, thefilm 7 defines, together with thedisc 5, a sub-chamber 12′ within which thesubstance 11 to be infused is effectively contained. The presence of thisfilm 7, which allows the passage of the pressurised fluid but not the passage of thesubstance 11, prevents the dispersion of the coffee powder during the infusion step, improving the quality of the infused beverage. - With particular reference to the embodiment variant of
FIG. 6 , which shows acapsule 1 for the preparation of infused coffee, thecup 2 comprises, inside a dividingwall 13, preferably circular, suitable to define the lateral walls of the sub-chamber 12′ within which thesubstance 11 to be infused is effectively contained. In this embodiment variant, thefilm 7 is fixed in correspondence of the upper edge of the dividingwall 13, an edge that in this case represents thehorizontal abutment 17 for gluing or welding. - The embodiment variant of
FIG. 8 shows a capsule for the preparation of soluble beverages, such as for example tea, chocolate or milk. Preferably, in this embodiment variant, thecapsule 1 for soluble substances comprises thecover 6 and thesealing disc 5, and is withoutfilter 8 and permeable ormicro-perforated film 7. - The
capsule 1, in its various embodiment variants, can be used for the extemporaneous preparation of beverages (such as tea, coffee, herbal tea, milk, chocolate, etc.) using automatic or semi-automatic machines equipped with a dispenser group suitable to produce an infusion through the passage of hot water under pressure through thecapsule 1. - So, in use, the
capsule 1 is inserted in a suitable seat provided in the machine. The machine pierces thecover 6, placed to close thecapsule 1, and inserts, inside thechamber substance 11 is contained, a pressurised fluid (mostly hot water). - The presence of the
disc 5 to closure of thebottom 3 of thecapsule 1 allows the pressurised fluid to remain, for a certain interval of time, in contact with thesubstance 11 to be infused or dissolved, so as to ensure obtaining an optimum infused beverage. The pressure exerted by the fluid inside thecapsule 1 rises until reaching a certain threshold level, or opening pressure (for example comprised between 4 and 8 bar), which pushes on thedisc 5 determining the opening of thecapsule 1. At this point the infused beverage can flow out through theexit opening 31 and be directed, via thenozzle 32, into the cup or final container. - In particular, as shown in
FIGS. 5 and 5A , the opening of thecapsule 1 is determined by the deformation, at least partial, of thedisc 5. - Due to the increase of pressure inside the
capsule 1, thedisc 5 becomes slightly convex, which is to say theedge 51 is slightly raised with respect to theedge 360 of thebase 33. - Due to the increase of pressure inside the
capsule 1, theedge 51 of thedisc 5 is detached or unstuck, at least partially, preferably completely, from thebase 33. The unsticking occurs at least in correspondence of theedge 51 of thedisc 5 and theedge 360 of thebase 33. This unsticking obviates the sealing effect previously provided by thesealing disc 5. - Always due to the increase of pressure inside the
capsule 1, theedge 51 of thedisc 5 is deformed with a certain undulation and forms acrease 52, preferably a plurality ofcreases 52. - The deformation of the
disc 5, and in particular thecrease 52, determines a separation of thedisc 5 from thebase 33, at least in correspondence of theedge 360, such as to allow the opening of a passage P for the outflow of the infused liquid. - In particular, the
edge 51 of thedisc 5 forms acrease 52 in correspondence of at least onerecess 351. Preferably, theedge 51 of thedisc 5 forms acrease 52 in correspondence of eachrecess 351. - Advantageously, the
disc 5, being supported only on the upper surface of the sectors. 350, without being welded or glued on them, can freely slide on thesectors 350 during the deformation due to the increase of pressure inside thecapsule 1. Moreover, the presence of therecesses 351 allows accommodating, without obstructing it, the deformation of thedisc 5 due to the increase of pressure inside thecapsule 1. Therefore, precisely in correspondence of therecesses 351, thecreases 52 are formed. - This technical solution allows the
disc 5 to be deformed without tearing or breaking. - In the
capsule 1 according to this invention, the exit passage P for the infused beverage, between thechamber nozzle 32, is created spontaneously by just the increase in pressure exerted by the pressurised fluid in thecapsule 1, without the need for means of piercing or tearing of the disc, points or cutting profiles. - This invention also relates to a method for preparing an infused beverage using a
capsule 1 according to this invention, wherein the opening to allow the outflow of the infused beverage is determined the detachment or unsticking, at least partial, of thedisc 5 from thebase 33 and by the subsequent deformation, at least partial, of thedisc 5 itself. - In particular, the unsticking of the
disc 5 takes place in correspondence of theedge 360 of the base 33 so as to obviate the sealing effect previously provided by thedisc 5. The deformation of thedisc 5 takes place on the 51 of thedisc 5 which forms, at least at arecess 351, acrease 52 suitable to permit the release of the infused beverage. - A capsule according to this invention is usable for the packaging of concentrated products (in the form of powder, granules or leaves) in predetermined and disposable doses, for the extemporaneous preparation of beverages such as tea in leaves or soluble, coffee in powder or instant coffee, herbal tea, milk, chocolate, or other dehydrated, water-soluble products.
- Innovatively, a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention is of simple construction and, in any case, able to ensure high performance in terms of quality of the infused beverage.
- Advantageously, a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention allows maintaining over time the organoleptic properties of the substance contained inside it and thus ensures an excellent quality of the infused beverage.
- Advantageously, in a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention, the pressurised fluid passes through the substance to be infused in an optimal way with possible effects on the quality of the infused beverage.
- Advantageously, in a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention, the opening, to allow the infused beverage to flow out, occurs as a result of the deformation of the sealing disc, placed to cover the bottom, due to the pressure exerted by the pressurised fluid inside it, thus avoiding recourse to any means of cutting or piercing.
- Advantageously, in a capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages according to this invention, the infused beverage is never in contact with parts or elements of the machine used for the preparation of the beverage itself, without risks of alteration of the taste in the case of preparation of different types of beverages.
- It is clear that one skilled in the art may make changes to the capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages described above, all contained within the scope of protection defined by the following claims.
Claims (18)
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
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ITBS20150028 | 2015-02-27 | ||
ITBS2015A000028 | 2015-02-27 | ||
PCT/IB2016/050798 WO2016135581A1 (en) | 2015-02-27 | 2016-02-15 | Capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages |
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US20180044105A1 true US20180044105A1 (en) | 2018-02-15 |
US11040823B2 US11040823B2 (en) | 2021-06-22 |
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Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
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US15/553,590 Active 2036-09-08 US11040823B2 (en) | 2015-02-27 | 2016-02-15 | Capsule for the preparation of infused or soluble beverages |
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US (1) | US11040823B2 (en) |
EP (1) | EP3261958B1 (en) |
KR (1) | KR20180008396A (en) |
CN (1) | CN107406189B (en) |
AU (1) | AU2016225132A1 (en) |
BR (1) | BR112017018271B1 (en) |
ES (1) | ES2714869T3 (en) |
MX (1) | MX2017010987A (en) |
PL (1) | PL3261958T3 (en) |
RU (1) | RU2688362C2 (en) |
WO (1) | WO2016135581A1 (en) |
ZA (1) | ZA201706300B (en) |
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- 2016-02-15 MX MX2017010987A patent/MX2017010987A/en unknown
- 2016-02-15 US US15/553,590 patent/US11040823B2/en active Active
- 2016-02-15 AU AU2016225132A patent/AU2016225132A1/en not_active Abandoned
- 2016-02-15 BR BR112017018271-8A patent/BR112017018271B1/en active IP Right Grant
- 2016-02-15 CN CN201680012452.9A patent/CN107406189B/en active Active
- 2016-02-15 PL PL16712497T patent/PL3261958T3/en unknown
- 2016-02-15 KR KR1020177026532A patent/KR20180008396A/en unknown
- 2016-02-15 WO PCT/IB2016/050798 patent/WO2016135581A1/en active Application Filing
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Also Published As
Publication number | Publication date |
---|---|
EP3261958B1 (en) | 2018-12-12 |
AU2016225132A1 (en) | 2018-03-15 |
ZA201706300B (en) | 2019-02-27 |
CN107406189B (en) | 2019-05-17 |
PL3261958T3 (en) | 2019-06-28 |
BR112017018271A2 (en) | 2018-04-10 |
ES2714869T3 (en) | 2019-05-30 |
RU2688362C2 (en) | 2019-05-21 |
CN107406189A (en) | 2017-11-28 |
RU2017129830A (en) | 2019-02-25 |
MX2017010987A (en) | 2017-10-18 |
RU2017129830A3 (en) | 2019-03-28 |
US11040823B2 (en) | 2021-06-22 |
BR112017018271B1 (en) | 2022-02-08 |
KR20180008396A (en) | 2018-01-24 |
WO2016135581A1 (en) | 2016-09-01 |
EP3261958A1 (en) | 2018-01-03 |
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